Multinational Attitude Study findings released
Researchers, family members and Special Olympics athletes came together at the Special Olympics Scientific Symposium in Belfast, Northern Ireland, 19-20 June. An official event at the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games, the Symposium featured 50 papers and workshops on a wide variety of subjects under the theme of "Supporting Families."
In the opening session, Special Olympics Founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver challenged all present to move beyond the historical refrain of "No" that has been placed in front of persons with intellectual disabilities in all aspects of their lives. She asked instead for a "Yes" to opportunity, equity and acceptance and was roundly affirmed by all present.
The Symposium offered a rich mix of scientific and programmatic papers from contributors from around the world. Nearly half of the papers reported directly on scientific investigations and Special Olympics initiative reports, including sports, family, athlete leadership, youth and schools, and health.
A highlight of the Symposium was the release of results from the Multinational Study of Attitudes toward Individuals with Mental Retardation commissioned by Special Olympics. The study identified that, across the globe, the public underestimates the capabilities of persons with intellectual disabilities; believes that many barriers are placed in their path, including in the areas of education, employment and community participation; and believes that government should do more to support persons with intellectual disabilities. ( Learn more about the Multinational Study or download the full report.)
A distinguished panel of respondents, including representatives from South Africa, China and the United States, acknowledged the importance of the findings and indicated that they can serve as guideposts to plan and measure progress on behalf of those with intellectual disabilities.
Dr. Stephen Corbin, Dean of Special Olympics University, stated, "This Symposium was a tremendous success for the 250 attendees. We must ensure that this vital information is shared more broadly so that people who are in a position to act can act on behalf of persons with intellectual disabilities. The success of this Symposium points the way for similar events becoming a standard part of the Special Olympics World Games every two years."
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